Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week 2026 at Anderson Power Generation
At Anderson Power Generation, National Apprenticeship Week 2026 is a moment to recognise the value of learning, development and ambition within our industry. Apprenticeships are not just for school leavers. They are powerful career pathways for people of all ages who want to retrain, upskill and build meaningful careers in essential sectors such as power generation and engineering.
This year, we are proud to celebrate two members of our team who are progressing through adult apprenticeships while working full time within the business.
• Sean Hardy, Level 3 Electrotechnical qualification with Doncaster College
• Amy Wilkinson, Level 6 Marketing Manager qualification with Kent Business College
Their journeys highlight how apprenticeships create opportunities at every stage of life.
What Is National Apprenticeship Week?
National Apprenticeship Week is an annual celebration across the UK that recognises the positive impact apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses and the wider economy. It promotes the benefits of earning while learning and highlights the importance of skills development in strengthening industries such as engineering, manufacturing and energy.
You can find out more about apprenticeships and the opportunities available at
https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk
For businesses like Anderson Power Generation, apprenticeships are a strategic investment in skills, innovation and long term growth.
Adult Apprenticeships: Changing Careers and Building Skills
Apprenticeships are often associated with young people starting out. However, adult apprenticeships are becoming increasingly popular as professionals choose to retrain or pivot into new industries.
Both Sean and Amy made significant career changes before starting their apprenticeship journeys.
Their stories show that it is never too late to invest in yourself.
Sean Hardy: Level 3 Electrotechnical Qualification 
Sean Hardy is currently working towards his Level 3 Electrotechnical qualification with Doncaster College:
This qualification is a key step towards becoming a fully qualified electrician. It combines classroom based learning with hands on, practical experience in real working environments.
At Anderson Power Generation, Sean works on live projects across generator installations, electrical systems and on site support. This allows him to directly apply the theory he learns at college to real world electrical challenges.
Sean says:
“Changing career and starting an apprenticeship as an adult was a big decision, but it has been the best one I have made. Being able to learn on the job while gaining a recognised qualification gives me confidence that I am building a long term career in the electrical industry.”
The power generation sector relies on skilled electricians and engineers to maintain critical infrastructure. Apprentices like Sean are vital in ensuring the industry continues to grow and evolve safely and professionally.
Amy Wilkinson: Level 6 Marketing Manager Qualification 
Amy Wilkinson is completing her Level 6 Marketing Manager apprenticeship with Kent Business College:
http://www.kentbusinesscollege.co.uk
This is a Chartered Institute of Marketing aligned qualification that develops strategic marketing skills, leadership capability and commercial awareness.
Amy’s journey into marketing was a significant career shift. Prior to joining Anderson Power Generation, she worked as an Early Years Manager. At the age of 40, she decided to change direction and pursue a career in marketing within the engineering and power generation sector.
Amy says:
“Moving from Early Years education into engineering marketing at 40 was a huge change. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. The apprenticeship route has allowed me to gain structured learning while applying everything directly to our growth at Anderson Power Generation. It proves that it is never too late to change career and challenge yourself.”
Within the business, Amy leads on brand development, digital marketing strategy, website optimisation, content creation and lead generation. Her apprenticeship learning feeds directly into improving brand visibility, strengthening customer engagement and supporting commercial growth.
Learning on the Job: Why Apprenticeships Matter
One of the most valuable aspects of an apprenticeship is the blend of academic study and workplace experience.
Apprentices do not just learn theory. They apply it immediately.
In engineering and power generation, this is particularly important. Electrical systems, generator installations and high voltage projects require real world understanding. Similarly, strategic marketing in a technical industry demands hands on exposure to projects, clients and operational teams.
Apprenticeships support:
• Practical skill development
• Industry relevant knowledge
• Increased productivity
• Talent retention
• Long term workforce planning
For employers, apprenticeships create a pipeline of skilled professionals who understand the company’s culture, standards and expectations.
For individuals, they offer recognised qualifications without stepping away from employment.
Supporting Skills Growth in the Power Generation Industry
The power and energy sector is evolving rapidly. With increased demand for resilient backup power, renewable integration and electrical infrastructure upgrades, the industry needs skilled engineers and strategic professionals more than ever.
By supporting apprenticeships, Anderson Power Generation is investing in:
• Future electrical expertise
• Leadership and management capability
• Continuous professional development
• Sustainable business growth
Sean and Amy represent two different career paths within the same business, technical and commercial, both equally important to delivering high quality projects for our clients.
Our Commitment to Apprenticeships
At Anderson Power Generation, we believe in creating opportunities. National Apprenticeship Week 2026 is a reminder that learning does not stop once you leave school or university. Whether you are entering the workforce for the first time or changing career later in life, apprenticeships provide a structured, supported and recognised route to success.
We are proud of Sean and Amy for their commitment, resilience and ambition.
Their journeys demonstrate that apprenticeships are not just qualifications. They are career defining opportunities that strengthen individuals, businesses and the wider industry.
If you are considering an apprenticeship, or if your business is looking to invest in skills development, now is the time to explore the possibilities.
